Day 01 : Delhi - Haridwar (320 Kms)

Pick up from Delhi Railway Station or Airport and proceed to Haridwar. On arrival check into the hotel. Rest of the day is free. In the evening a visit to Har-ki-paudi to see the amazing Ganga aarathi.

Haridwar or 'the Gateway to Lord Hari' is a major pilgrimage for the Hindus. It stands as the gateway to the other three important pilgrimages Rishikesh, Badrinath and Kedarnath. Devout Hindus flock here in their thousands to perform "Sumerus" or prayers and take a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges , praying for the salvation of their ancestors. The evening "Aarti" at "Har Ki Pauri" is one the most enchanting sights to be seen at Haridwar.

The Ganges river which runs through Varanasi , is worshiped by Hindus and personified as a goddess. Hindu belief holds that bathing in the river forgives their sins and helps attain salvation. People travel from distant places to immerse the ashes of their family / kin in the waters of the Ganga ; this immersion also is believed to send the departed soul to heaven. The ancient scriptures mention that the water of Ganges carries the blessings of Lord Vishnu's feet; hence Mother Ganges is also known as Vishnupadi, which means "Emanating from the Lotus feet of Supreme Lord Sri Vishnu".

Overnight stay at Haridwar.

 

Day 02: Haridwar - Rishikesh - Haridwar (20 kms x 2)

Morning proceed for a sightseeing tour of Haridwar and Rishikesh. A visit to the Bharat Mata temple which has eight stories in which the images of cities, heroes and great men are installed, Mansa Devi Temple atop the Bilwa Parvat and Chandi Devi temple atop the Neel Parvat. A rope way carriage operates to Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi temple. At Rishikesh, we see the famous "Laxman joola" and option to visit one of its famous ashrams. An option to experience a bit of white river rafting.

Return to Haridwar to see the evening aarthi.

Rishikesh located about 25 km from Haridwar, is surrounded by the hills on three sides and the Holy Ganga river flowing through it. It is the gateway for the pilgrimage to the Char dham i.e.Gangotri, Yamnothri, Kedarnath, Hemkund Sahib and Badrinath. It is believed that meditation at Rishikesh leads to attainment of salvation and is home to many important centres of Hindu religious thought and spirituality. Rishikesh is also known as a centre for white water rafting and a base for treks and hikes in the beautiful Garhwal Himalayas.

Rishikesh is also known as the Yoga capital of the world. The International Yoga week, which attracts participants from all across the world, is held here every year in February.

Overnight stay at Haridwar