Haridwar and Rishikesh in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Haridwar literally means ‘the abode of Lord Vishnu’ and millions of people flock here every year to take part in an annual pilgrimage. While Rishikesh World Capital of Yoga – Gateway to the Himalayas – Adventure Capital of India located on the foothills of the Himalaya, is a famous pilgrimage site. The river Ganges flows through Rishikesh, and at this location it can not only impress through its mythological importance, but also through its clear water and scenic beauty. It is here that the river leaves the Shivalik Mountains in the Himalayas and flows out into the plains of northern India to the gulf of Bengal.
Haridwar and Rishikesh are meat and alcohol free cities because of their holy nature. Haridwar and Rishikesh are considered the “twin national heritage cities”. Since both the cities are popular tourist destinations, they provide a wide range of gastronomic options that are delicious and caters to people on various budgets and with different tastes. The mystical and spiritual environment of Haridwar and Rishikesh are the reason why they are considered perennial holiday destinations for people all around the world.
Haridwar or Hardwar {Hari means Lord Vishnu & Har means “Lord Shiva” and Dwara means “gate” or “gateway” gateway to the Gods and four pilgrimages in Garhwal Himalaya in Uttarakhand region “Gangotri the source of Ganga River, Yamunotri the source of Yamuna river, Kedarnath abode of lord Siva and Badrinath Abode of Lord Vishnu also known as Chardham Yatra, Haridwra located on the foot hills of Shivaliks. It is on the banks of River Ganga. The Ganga leaves the mountains and enters the plains with Rishikesh and Haridwar being two major town on the plains. Though the Ganges does not lose its rapids completely nevertheless it becomes very quite and calm here. The water is clean and people prefer taking bath on the numerous ghats built on the river shores. It is said that taking bath here purifies the soul and opens the way for the ultimate freedom, Nirvana.
Haridwar has earned fame as being the place which has been blessed by the trinity of Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. It is also one of the major Shakti Peeths. Down the ages, Haridwar has purified the mind, the body and the soul. Not only in spiritual or religious terms Haridwar has come up as a major learning center for arts, science and culture. This place has maintained the Gurukul tradition of teaching. This ancient tradition of teaching has maintained its fervour in Haridwar.
Har Ki Pauri: “Har “lord Shiva or “Hari: lord Vishnu “Ki” means “of” and “Pauri” means “steps”. Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are believed to have visited the Brahmakund in Har Ki Pauri in the Vedic times. There is a large footprint said to belong to Lord Vishnu on a stone wall.
The Ganga Aarti: Each evening at sunset priests perform Ganga Aarti here, when lights are set on the water to drift downstream. A large number of people gather on both the banks of river Ganges to sing its praises. The priests hold large fire bowls in their hands, the gongs in the temples at the Ghat start ringing and the chants flowing out of lips fill the air. People float earthen Diyas, with burning flickers and flowers in them as a symbol of hope and wishes .The golden hues of floral diyas reflected in the river Ganges presents spectacular view.
In Rishikesh there are numerous temples and ashrams, some historical and some newer ones. The city attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from India and western countries every year. There are many Yoga schools, most of which have a very long tradition. Rishikesh has the reputation to be the “Yoga Capital” of the world. Hindus believe that through meditation in Rishikesh and bathing in the sacred river Ganges, they can find the way to salvation (Moksha). During the 1960s, the Beatles and other western musicians visited Rishikesh to meditate.
ITINERARY: DURATION 03 NIGHS & 04 DAYS
DAY 01: ARRIVING AT DEHRADUN AIRPORT – HARIDWAR (56 KMS DRIVE – 2 HRS)
On arrival in Dehradun, you will be met and transferred to Haridwar. On arrival check in at your hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Haridwar. Haridwar is one of the 7 holiest places of Hindus in India. It is located in the foothills of Himalaya and also it is the place where the Ganges reaches the plains. Many temples and Ashrams are located in this region and visit to Haridwar is like stepping into a divine world. Haridwar means “Gateway to the God & goddess “. It has pleasant climate throughout the year as it is located in the Himalayan region, blessed with natural beauty. Kumbh Mela is celebrated once in 12 years in Haridwar.
DAY 02: HARIDWAR – EXPLORE THE CITY
Morning proceed to sightseeing of Haridwar. Haridwar is the gateway to the four pilgrimages in the Uttrakhand region and is located on the foothills of Shivaliks. It is on the banks of River Ganges. The River Ganges Leaves the mountains and enters the plains with Haridwar being the first major town on the plains. Though the Ganges does not lose its rapids completely nevertheless it becomes very quite and calm here. The City acquired a unique charm in the evening when the ghats become breathtakingly beautiful with thousand of Diyas and Marigold floating in the waters of Ganges. We visit various places like Mansa Devi temple, Sapt Rishi, Daksha Mahadev temple etc. In the evening we visit Har ki Pauri again. In the evening a Maha Aarti is performed on the ghat. Overnight stay in hotel.
DAY 03: HARIDWAR – RISHIKESH (25 KMS DRIVE – 1 HRS)
Morning Drive to Rishikesh. Rishikesh – the world capital of Yoga. Set in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is a beautiful city that remains thronged with devotees and adventure enthusiasts all through the year. The city features a unique charm and scenic beauty which adds to the visit of every traveler. The place holds immense religious importance as it is the starting point of sacred pilgrimage tours of Hindus- the Char Dham Yatra (comprising Gangotri, Badrinath, Yamunotri and Kedarnath).The place features a serene and pleasant ambiance which is perfect for those who wish for some privacy and peace, away from the daily hustle and bustle of the overcrowded cities. On arrival check-in at hotel Later visit Lakshman Jhula, a popular attraction of Rishikesh. The place is known to offer picturesque views of the snow capped mountains and lush green forests. The bridge was built in the year 1939 and it is believed that Lakshman, brother of Lord Ram, crossed the Ganges on jute ropes, on which the bridge stands today. In the evening, visit the Triveni Ghat to witness yet another special prayer ceremony. It is very interesting to watch the prayer ceremony. Overnight stay in hotel.
DAY 04: RISHIKESH – DEHRADUN AIRPORT (18 KMS DRIVE -½ HRS)
Morning after breakfast transfer to Dehradun airport Tour & service ends.
YOGA IN ASHRAM
We also offers Yoga retreat in Ashrams, Accommodation in Ashrams and Yoga program for our participants in Rishikesh is at Parmarth Niketan / Yoga Niketan Ashram , one of Rishikesh finest Ashrams, which offers views over the holy river Ganges. The rooms retain the simplicity of ashram life, while being equipped with the necessary modern amenities such as fans, private bathrooms with hot and cold running water and western or Indian toilets. Vegetarian Meals are provided at the Ashram.
The daily activities include morning universal prayers, satsang and lecture programs (listening to or reading scriptures, reflecting on, discussing and assimilating their meaning), kirtan (call and response chant), and world renowned Ganga Aarti at sunset. General yoga asana and meditation classes are offered throughout the day.
Monday to Friday, natural cure and Ayurvedic treatment are also available on the premises. In addition, there are frequent special cultural and spiritual programs given by visiting revered saints, acclaimed musicians, spiritual and social leaders and others. All staying guest are welcome to participate in the daily activities.
SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE: A Typical day At Ashram
05.30 A.M. to 06.30 A.M. Meditation classes
07.00 A.M. to 08.00 A.M. Yoga class
08.15 A.M. Breakfast
12.00 Noon. Lunch
5.00 A.M. to 15.45 A.M. Lecture
16.00 P.M. Tea
16.30 P.M. to 19.00 P.M. Yoga & Meditation Classes
19.30 P.M. Dinner
Our Contribution
We have expertise in offering the vacationers the best possible tour packages at market leading prices. Moreover, we also pay attention on the amenities and assistance provided by us during the entire tour to assure a safe as well as memorable holiday experience.
We offer the widest choice of accommodation (including resorts, hotels, houseboats, Luxury Mobile Camps, home stays) in India. This means we have been very successful in matching customers’ requirements (both interests and budget) to create the perfect holiday. We are able to make recommendations based on personal experience and feedback from recent clients to ensure we find the right hotel for our client requirements and budget.
The best way to see India is by road and our fleet of modern, well maintained vehicles will facilitate you in this regard. With our latest vehicles driven by experienced drivers, we ensure our clients take home wonderful memories from their tour.
Our communication systems are used extensively to impart flawless service to our clients. Our team is available online in SKYPE, other social media network & are accessible over mobile phone around the clock for assistance. Excellent infrastructure that we created over all these years’ serves as a boon to all clients as they are given 24 hours’ personal care & assistance.