5 Nights and 6 Days Uttarakhand Tour: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mussoorie and Landour

• Spiritual immersion in Haridwar with Ganga Aarti and sacred temples
• Tranquility and yoga vibes in Rishikesh, exploring bridges and ashrams, witnessing the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
• Optional adventure on the Ganges with rafting, bungee jumping, and ziplining (seasonal).
• Colonial charm of Landour, wandering peaceful lanes, discovering historic churches, and feeling the literary connection to Ruskin Bond.
• Scenic beauty of Mussoorie offering panoramic Himalayan views, cascading Kempty Falls, and the lively Mall Road.
• Journeys through the picturesque foothills of the Himalayas connecting these captivating destinations..

Delhi is well connected with domestic and international flights to all the major cities within and outside India. Almost all the major airlines have their flights operating from Indira Gandhi International Airport at New Delhi. Domestic Airport connects Delhi to the major cities in India.

The railway network connects Delhi to the all major and, nearly all the minor destinations in India. The three important railway stations of Delhi are New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station.

Delhi is well connected, by a network of roads and national highways with all the major cities in India. The three major bus stands in Delhi are Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Kashmiri Gate, Sarai Kale-Khan Bus Terminus and Anand Vihar Bus Terminus. Both government and private transport providers provide frequent bus services. One can also get government as well as private taxis here.

Areas with Strong Religious Significance:

Haridwar and Rishikesh: These are considered highly sacred Hindu cities. You will find that alcohol and non-vegetarian food are generally not available and often strictly prohibited in most establishments within the main city limits, especially near temples and ashrams. It's respectful to adhere to this local custom. You might findsome restaurants slightly outside the core areas that offer non-vegetarian options, but alcohol is usually still restricted.

Temple Towns: Smaller towns that are primarily known for specific temples (like Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri during their opening seasons) also tend to have restrictions on alcohol and non-vegetarian food to maintain the sanctity of the religious environment.

Holidaymine and its suppliers will assist you to the best of their ability with any queries, clarifications, changes, or customizations prior to confirming the booking. Your confirmation of this package and the included hotel/s indicates that you have read and understood the following:

• Itinerary and holiday plan
• Holiday inclusions & and exclusions
• Cancellation policy and Terms and Conditions
• Hotels offered and their service quality, which you have agreed to and accepted In the event of any changes to hotels, room categories, or deviations from the confirmed Itinerary made by the client, any additional expenses incurred will be payable in full by the client directly to local operators hotels, or activity providers.

What to Pack for Uttarakhand – Season-wise Essentials

General Essentials (All Seasons and Regions):

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen (high SPF), sunglasses, hat
• Basic first-aid kit and personal medications
• Reusable water bottle
• Small backpack
• Power bank

Combined Season Clothing:

Light Layers (March-May: Day 10-25°C, Night 0-15°C and September-November: Day 10-22°C, Night 2-12°C)

Lightweight woolens or fleece jackets Cotton or breathable tops and trousers Long-sleeved shirts (sun protection) Light raincoat or windbreaker

Warm Weather (June-August: Day 15-35°C, Night 8-20°C) Lightweight and breathable cotton/quick-drying clothes Shorts and t-shirts (respect local customs)

Cold Weather (December-February: Day Sub-zero to 15°C, Night Significantly Sub-zero to 5°C)

Heavy woolens (sweaters, thermals) Warm, insulated jacket (down or synthetic) Gloves, scarf, warm hat (covering ears) Warm, water-resistant socks and boots Windproof outerwear

Region-Specific Considerations:

Hill Stations: Pack layers year-round. Winters (Dec-Feb) are significantly colder with sub-zero temperatures possible (heavy woollens essential). Lower Valleys (near Corbett): Warmer temperatures overall; warm layers needed in winter (Dec-Feb); rain gear in monsoon (Jun-Aug). High Altitude Pilgrimage Sites: Temperatures can drop significantly even in warmer months. Warm and waterproof clothing essential, especially during Yatra (Jun-Aug and Sep-Oct). Plains (Haridwar): Warmer summers (Apr-Sep), cooler winters (Nov-Feb). Dress accordingly.

Key Takeaway:

Layering is crucial throughout Uttarakhand as temperatures vary significantly with altitude and time of day. The provided temperature ranges are general guidelines and vary by location. Always check the specific weather forecast for your destinations and travel dates for the most accurate information.

• Cancellations received upto 30 days prior to arrival will be fully refundable
• Cancellation received between 30 days and 15days will be subjected to 10% of tour cost
• Between 15 - 10 days of departure: 35% of tour cost will be deducted.
• Less than 10 days or No Show will be subjected to 100% amount.
• Any Cancellation which is result of Natural or Political problem will be refundable, subjected to local suppliers approval.

• GST @ 5% will be applicable on the total bill as per government regulations.
• Prices quoted are in Indian Rupees (INR) unless otherwise specified.
• Hotel Check-in & Check-out Policy: Check-in is between 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM, and check-out is between 10:00 AM & 12:00 PM (timings may vary by hotel).
• ID Proof Requirement: As per government norms, all guests must present a valid photo ID proof (Aadhar Card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving License) at the time of check-in. PAN Card is not accepted as ID proof. Children must also carry an identity card for check-in formalities.
• Room Category & Availability: The offer is based on base category rooms at the mentioned hotels (unless stated otherwise). If unavailable, we will provide the next available category and incase of any additional charges applicable, the same will be communicated well in advance before confirmation of final package.
• Transportation Policy: The vehicle will be provided strictly as per the itinerary and will not be at disposal for additional use.
• Cancellation & Refund: Refunds will be processed as per the applicable cancellation policy & terms.
• Peak Season Supplement: Supplementary charges will apply for bookings during long weekends, public holidays, and festival periods such as Diwali, Christmas, and New Year.
• Right to Modify or Cancel: The seller reserves the right to change, modify, or terminate the offer at its discretion without prior notice.

Limitations and Liability

• Guest comfort is our top priority, and we strive to provide the best possible experience. However, certain circumstances may be beyond our control.
• Any extra charges arising due to local strikes, medical emergencies, or government regulations will be billed separately and must be paid directly by the client.
• If there is an increase in entrance fees for monuments/museums, taxes, fuel costs, or guide charges due to government regulations, the additional amount will be charged accordingly.

Force Majeure

Holidaymine and its representatives shall not be held liable for any failure or delay in performing its obligations due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control. This includes but is not limited to natural disasters, extreme weather conditions, acts of God, pandemics, government restrictions, strikes, civil disturbances, terrorist activities, or flight cancellations. In the event of such occurrences, any additional costs incurred will be borne by the client, and refunds (if applicable) will be subject to the policies of respective service providers, including hotels, airlines, and local transport operators.

Dehradun: Serving as the gateway to your Garhwal adventure, Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand, nestled in the Doon Valley at the foothills of the Himalayas. Known for its pleasant climate, educational institutions, and scenic surroundings, it provides a gentle introduction to the region's natural beauty before you ascend into the higher hills. The city offers a blend of urban amenities and access to nearby attractions.

**Rishikesh: **Nestled on the banks of the holy Ganges River at a lower altitude (around 340 meters / 1,100 feet), Rishikesh is a spiritual hub known as the "Yoga Capital of the World. It offers a blend of spiritual experiences, adventure activities like river rafting, and a vibrant cultural scene. With its ashrams,temples, yoga centers, and the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, Rishikesh provides a unique and contrasting experience after exploring the higher Himalayan regions.

Mussoorie: Perched at an altitude of around 2,000 meters (6,600 feet), Mussoorie, the and Queen of the Hills,and exudes a colonial charm with its Victorian-era architecture, bustling Mall Road, and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and the sprawling Doon Valley. The town offers a mix of leisure activities, scenic walks, and viewpoints, making it a classic and beloved hill station for families. Its lively atmosphere and accessibility make it a popular destination.

Landour: Adjacent to the hustle-bustle of Mussoorie, Landour offers a tranquil and old-world charm. This cantonment town, with its quieter trails, colonial-era bungalows, and dense deodar forests, provides a serene escape. Known for its literary connections and quaint bakeries, Landour offers picturesque walks and stunning vistas without the crowds of its more famous neighbor.

**Haridwar: **Haridwar, literally meaning "Gateway to the Lord," is one of Hinduism's holiest pilgrimage sites, situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganga in Uttarakhand. This bustling town is characterized by its crowded markets, numerous temples, ashrams, and ghats that teem with pilgrims seeking spiritual merit in this life and the next. While many visitors are transient – mendicants, sadhus offering prayers before their onward journey to higher altitudes, and pilgrims seeking solace – Haridwar also attracts those in search of spiritual sustenance. The constant flow of people ensures a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, offering a multitude of spiritual experiences and delights for all who visit.

Haridwar: Shopping in Haridwar includes buying religious implements, brassware, cane and bamboo products, semi-precious stones, vermilion powder, herbal medicines, spices and pickles. The Bara Bazaar, Moti Bazaar and Jwalapur areas of Haridwar are the main shopping places. The sacred rudraksha garland, made from strings of the rudraksha seed and used by religious men, is also sold here.

 Mussoorie - The main shopping areas in Mussoorie are the Library, Kulri Bazaar and Landour Bazaar that sell curios, ethnic jewellery, as well as antiques. Beyond Kulri Bazaar a road goes 5 kms up to the old cantonment area of Landour. Shops in the market sell Raj memorabilia, silver jewellery and books. You can pick up beautifully handcrafted walking sticks among other things from shops on the Mall. Just below the mall Road is a Tibetan market where one can buy sleeping bags, windcheaters, sweaters and shawls at very reasonable prices.

Money- The currency of India is Indian Rupees (INR). The currency exchange departments are present in almost every Indian city. You can also exchange your currency in 5 star and 4 star hotels, no other currency is valid except for Indian currency (INR).

Best time to Visit- Uttarakhand is a year-round destination, depending upon where you decide to go.

Travel Kit- Comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sunglasess.

Drugs- Heavy penalties including imprisonment for possession of narcotic drugs.** **

Temple Codes- Dress conservatively in Temples.

Smoking- Smoking is banned in public places.

Uttarakhand Festivals & Fairs-  Festivals and fairs are celebrated throughout Uttarakhand on a large scale. Some of the important fairs and festivals are as follows:

• Many villages and towns in Uttarakhand celebrate seasonal fairs and festivals. The most important and well known of the religious events are the Ardh Kumbh and the Maha Kumbh Melas, at Haridwar; this event attracts millions of devotees from all across the world.
•  January : Uttarayani Mela (Rameshwar, Chitrashila, Bageshwar,Hanseswar)
•  March : Jauljibi Mela, Poornagiri Mela (Pithoragarh), Jhanda Fair (Dehradun)
• April : Thal Mela (Pithoragarh), Dwarahat Mela, Somnath Masi Mela (Almora)
• July-Aug : Shravan Jhoola Mela (Jageshwar, Almora), Kavand Mela (Haridwar)
•  August : Devidhura Mela (Pithoragarh)
•  September: Nandadevi Mela (Roopkund, Almora, Nauti, Dandidhara, Munsyari)
•  October : Gananath Mela (Almora)