Introduction
Recently, we embarked on a memorable road trip to Haridwar and Rishikesh (Uttarakhand). Our group comprised me, my wife, brother, sister, and brother-in-law. Traveling in our own car, we relished every moment of the journey, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 1: Journey to Haridwar
Morning Departure
We began our trip early in the morning, filled with excitement and anticipation. The car was packed, and the playlist was set to our favorite tunes. The drive was smooth, with lively conversations and laughter echoing inside the car.
Expressway Rest Stop
Midway through our journey, we took a short break at an expressway rest area. Stretching our legs and grabbing some refreshments, we clicked a few selfies to capture the fun moments.
Arrival in Haridwar
Upon reaching Haridwar, our first task was to find suitable accommodation. After a brief search of about 20-25 minutes, we found a basic yet hygienic hotel that met our needs. We checked in, freshened up, and relaxed for a while.
Evening Exploration
Post-dinner, we ventured out to explore the local market near our hotel. The vibrant streets were bustling with activity, offering a variety of local handicrafts and street food. Our next stop was the iconic Har Ki Pauri, where we spent time soaking in the spiritual ambiance. We also collected bottles of holy Ganga water to bring back home. After a late-night chai at Har Ki Pauri, we returned to our hotel, wrapping up our first day around 1 AM.
Day 2: Spiritual Sojourn in Haridwar
Morning Rituals
We started our day with a holy dip at Har Ki Pauri, participating in the Ganga snan. The refreshing waters of the Ganges rejuvenated our spirits. After the ritual, we headed back to the hotel for breakfast and prepared for the day’s adventures.
Trek to Mansa Devi Temple
Our first destination was the Mansa Devi Temple, situated atop a hill. Opting for a 1.5 km trek, we ascended the mountain, enjoying the scenic views. While some of us were swift climbers, I took my time but eventually reached the temple. The sense of accomplishment and the divine blessings made the effort worthwhile.
Visit to Chandi Devi Temple
Descending from Mansa Devi, we took an auto-rickshaw to the base of Chandi Devi Temple. The fare was a bit steep at ₹300 for a short distance, but it was a convenient option. To save our energy, we chose the ropeway to reach the temple. The aerial view during the ride was breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of Haridwar. After seeking blessings at the temple, we made our way back.
Evening Ganga Aarti
One of the highlights of our trip was attending the evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. Witnessing the synchronized rituals, chants, and the sight of numerous diyas floating on the river was a mesmerizing experience. It was my first time witnessing the Aarti in person, and it left an indelible mark on my heart.
Dinner and Relaxation
Post-Aarti, we dined at a nearby restaurant, savoring local delicacies. A leisurely walk back to the hotel under the starlit sky concluded our second day on a serene note.
Day 3: Excursion to Rishikesh
Morning Drive to Rishikesh
The next morning, we set out for Rishikesh, approximately an hour’s drive from Haridwar. The journey was filled with scenic landscapes and the soothing sound of the Ganges flowing alongside.
Exploring Ram Jhula and Ganga Beach
Our first stop was the iconic Ram Jhula, a suspension bridge offering picturesque views of the river and the surrounding hills. Crossing the bridge, we reached the Ganga beach, where we spent time relaxing on the sandy shores, dipping our feet in the cool waters, and capturing the moments through photographs.
Return Journey
Around noon, we began our journey back home, reminiscing about the beautiful experiences and the spiritual enrichment we gained over the past three days.