Haridwar Rishikesh Tour: Honest Review & Tips (with Aarti)

So, are you planning a spiritual trip to Haridwar and Rishikesh? Maybe you are wanting a little getaway to experience some peace, culture, and possibly even some adventure? A 2-day private tour that includes the Ganga Aarti is what you are looking for, that’s totally an option. It provides a manageable and pretty convenient way to experience these two holy cities in northern India. This article covers just what you might want to look at when you’re thinking over whether such a tour is the move for you, alongside some recommendations for getting the absolute most from the experience.

Why Choose a 2-Day Private Tour?

Ok, first things first. Why even bother with a private tour that only lasts 2 days? Well, if you’re a little tight on time, or like your own pace, it’s actually a really solid compromise. Doing the trip privately really opens up a level of freedom over group tours, especially when it comes to things like stopping where you feel like it and customizing the itinerary just how you like it. And two days? That could be just enough to hit up the key spiritual hotspots without draining your energy. This kinda trip can be super for those that want something structured but that is not a rigid thing.

Arguably, a private tour could be that good ticket for families with unique requirements, or those who prefer traveling solo, where a degree of flexibility might matter a whole lot. Instead of hurrying to stay with some predetermined timetable, you are more or less free to really soak up each place at your own speed. This does mean there will be increased travel expenses but for lots of folks the added comfort is well worth the cash.

What to Expect: Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Haridwar – The Gateway to God

So, Day 1 typically begins in Haridwar, commonly called “The Gateway to God.” The primary attraction here, possibly obviously, is Har Ki Pauri, the primary ghat on the Ganges River. Apparently, tradition says that it’s at this place that some drops from the elixir of immortality are said to have fallen from the sky. This spot is typically bursting with people but even then it has an undeniable sort of electricity in the atmosphere.

Anyway, it might go that you will spend a chunk of your time watching people doing their devotional rituals, and perhaps even seeing some sadhus in traditional garb. It’s almost a great idea to get there just before sunset in time to be sure to see the Ganga Aarti. As a matter of fact, this is one of the highlights of the journey. Can you just picture the river being illuminated with lamps while chants resound all around? That, is unforgettable. Following the Aarti, you can wander along the marketplaces close by; here, so many keepsakes and yummy snacks might distract your attention.

Day 2: Rishikesh – Yoga Capital of the World

Next! The second day sees you hitting the road toward Rishikesh, aka the “Yoga Capital of the World,” which takes maybe an hour’s drive from Haridwar, very short, just enough to build that tension and anticpation. You should find a much more laid-back scene. The most visited points of interest will more than likely be places like Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula — which, incidentally, are some suspension bridges over the Ganges.

Presumably, a huge part of Rishikesh’s charm involves taking a relaxed walk round the ghats, stopping at little cafes that serve organic food, and really breathing deep during the mountain air. Arguably, those daring types may decide on white-water rafting down the Ganges. On the other hand, those seeking just some peace are more likely to get it in the countless yoga ashrams that you can find dotted about the area. That said, you know what’s actually a fun fact? The Beatles went to Rishikesh within the late 1960s to learn meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, aiding put this location onto the international map with those in search of enlightenment! To be honest, its charm never fades!

The Ganga Aarti: A Spiritual Highlight

As a matter of fact, if there is one thing that must be seen and experienced when you are touring either Haridwar or Rishikesh it’s that awesome Ganga Aarti. This devotion ceremony is usually dedicated to the Ganges, thought of as being a goddess within Hinduism. Each evening, priests perform rituals involving fire, incense, bells, and chanting at sunset at the ghats. Very colorful.

Seemingly, watching as the sun goes lower and also the river starts flickering from your lights of those diyas (oil lamps) actually leaves one sensation of something spiritual, even if one isn’t necessarily spiritual otherwise. Obviously, just so you are prepared: It does draw large crowds, therefore its smart to find some position sooner rather than later when you’re likely going. If you’re searching to actually heighten your feeling of things, you might try floating your own personal diya within the Ganges. You will not only participate, but, so too, may possibly feel really, spiritually charged by the knowledge you contributed one thing to it.

Accommodation and Food: What to Expect

Alright, about accommodations? With your private tour bundle, you can often locate many choices available to satisfy all budgets. At both of the cities expect some mix from budget friendly guesthouses to more upscale hotels. Of course, hotels in Rishikesh occasionally supply better mountain views in the room even. You could wish to be sure you’ve received lodging that feels secure, has reliable access to the internet and perhaps most significant: Its near key locations if one enjoys traveling at the moment!

Then again, when it comes to eats be prepared for vegetarian food experiences, you will remember a very long time! Each of Haridwar along with Rishikesh mostly serves conventional Indian foods and savory regional specialties; you’ll quickly get a way of exactly what it’s enjoy if something tasty combines with some thing nutritious on a single plate! Just take the chance to try anything new that could come up–a lot of the eateries there have clean food items so it needs never cause issues!

Tips for a Smooth and Fulfilling Tour

• Dress Respectfully: That is actually kind of significant, mainly while visiting temples or any religious sites. Just to be sure that you cover the shoulders of yours and you too can wear long pants or possibly skirts.
• Stay Hydrated: Just that plain and simple. The summer sun and even humidity really do a quantity on you. As I was saying, get yourself a refillable container filled right up and consume lots, many.
• Bargain Respectfully: At any time you are looking, haggling fairly is standard. So you should practice being polite even in the course.
• Be Mindful of Photography: Almost, always ask prior to having someone’s picture! Almost everyone does not mind but its most polite should you go very first asking.
• Pack Light, but Smart: I mean, think clothing thats comfortable in layers, essential medicines, adaptors as required then comfortable footwear on all terrain sorts of settings.
• Respect Local Customs: What to watch: Do keep off showing people public love, steer clear of holding your feet at the sacred sites and, anyway, always value neighborhood practices and cultural nuances!

Common FAQs About the Tour