Memories and Mistakes - Uttarakhand trip with family for 10 days

We decided to plan a family trip with our kids to a cooler destination and chose Uttarakhand from the available options for the end of October. Here, we’re sharing our experiences, cherished memories, and a few mistakes we made so fellow travelers can avoid them.

Day 1: Mumbai to Dehradun and arrival in Rishikesh

We took a direct flight from Mumbai to Dehradun Airport scheduled at 1:00 PM, but it got delayed and departed at 3:00 PM, landing in Dehradun by 5:30 PM.

Mistake 1: Always book an early morning flight to reach Dehradun by noon and make better use of your day.

We hired a car for 10 days to ensure a hassle-free journey with our two kids. Our first stop was Rishikesh, where we arrived at our hotel by 7:00 PM. After settling in, we wrapped up the day with a relaxing dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation options in Rishikesh:

• Ashrams: Ideal for those who want to experience the spiritual vibe and stay close to the Ganga River in the heart of Rishikesh. Many ashrams offer prior online booking, while others accept on-the-spot reservations based on availability.

• Hotels/Resorts: Perfect for those looking for more comfort or planning adventure activities in Shivpuri.

We stayed at the Swiss Cottage by Salvus Hotels. Our premium terrace room offered a refreshing morning view and a private terrace for sitting out or doing yoga sessions, which added a serene start to our day.

Day 2: River Rafting and Exploring Rishikesh

We started the day with a river rafting session in Shivpuri. The charges vary from ₹600 to ₹1,000, depending on the distance (9 km, 12 km, 16 km, or 36 km), and include hotel pickup/drop-off and rafting equipment.

Mistake 2: The water in October is muddy due to post-monsoon runoff from the mountains, so it doesn’t offer the “White River Rafting” experience seen in March or April.

Tips for Rafting:

• If you're a couple or a small group of 4, insist on being clubbed with others to make an 8-person raft. A larger group makes the raft move faster, adding to the thrill.

• The 12 km rafting stretch includes three rapids, providing a good balance of adventure and fun.

• One of the most memorable moments is when they let you jump into the Ganga River and float at your leisure—it’s an exhilarating experience!

Evening Activities:

In the evening, we explored the famous suspension bridges: Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, and Devki Jhula. However, all three are quite similar, so walking through one is enough. Be prepared for crowds, as these areas are quite busy. Convenient parking is available near Ram Jhula.

We enjoyed lunch at Chotiwala Restaurant near Ram Jhula.

Day 3: Adventure Activities and Spiritual Experiences in Rishikesh

Rishikesh is renowned for its adventure offerings, so we began our day near Shivpuri with a range of thrilling activities. The adventure park here features:

• Bungee Jumping

• Reverse Bungee Jumping

• Giant Swing (highly recommended for its breathtaking mountain views)

• Archery and Bowling

• Kid-Friendly Activities

The park also has a cafeteria serving a variety of options like pizza, burgers, and Indian vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, making it a convenient spot for families.

Post-Lunch Visit to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple:

In the afternoon, we drove an hour to visit the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. While the journey is scenic, parking is located about 1 km away from the temple, requiring a walk to reach the entrance. Despite the distance, the spiritual atmosphere of this revered Shiva temple makes it worth the effort.

Evening at Triveni Ghat:

Later, we visited Triveni Ghat to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a serene and spiritually uplifting experience. It was a perfect way to conclude the day, soaking in the divine energy and vibrant ambiance by the river.

Day 4: Journey to Jim Corbett and a Relaxing Evening

After breakfast, we departed from Rishikesh for Jim Corbett, a scenic drive of approximately 6 hours. Our stay was at Riverside by Aahma, known for its riverfront rooms.

Highlights of the Stay:

• The riverfront rooms offered stunning views and a refreshing ambiance, making it a perfect retreat amidst nature.

• The property itself was excellent, though the indoor clubhouse could use better maintenance.

In the evening, we enjoyed a relaxing bonfire accompanied by live music, creating a soothing atmosphere with the gentle sounds of the flowing river in the background. It was a serene and rejuvenating way to end the day.

Day 5: River Rafting on the Kosi River and Bijrani Safari

We began the day with river rafting on the Kosi River, which flows just behind the resort.

Rafting Highlights:

• The water in the Kosi River is exceptionally clear, making the experience more serene than rafting in Rishikesh.

• The rafting charges are ₹5,000 for 4 people, higher than Rishikesh, but the pristine water and breathtaking mountain views make it worthwhile.

• The water is shallower compared to the Ganga, offering a calmer experience ideal for nature enthusiasts.

• Birdwatchers will love this activity, as numerous birds can be spotted during the ride.

Afternoon Safari in Bijrani Zone:

Post-lunch, we embarked on our first jungle safari in the Bijrani Zone of Jim Corbett National Park. The highlight of the safari was witnessing an elephant family charging towards our jeep—a thrilling and unforgettable moment!

Although we couldn’t spot a tiger this time, the raw beauty of the jungle and its diverse wildlife made the experience exciting and memorable.

Day 6: Morning Safari and Journey to Nainital

With renewed hopes, we began the day with another safari in the Bijrani Zone of Jim Corbett National Park.

Morning Safari Highlights:

• This time, we spotted three jackals with their prey, an exciting sight as they darted along the track.

• Unfortunately, we were still unable to spot a tiger.

• Tip: Tiger sightings are less frequent in winter due to the tall grass in the grasslands, which reduces visibility. For a better chance, plan your visit in the summer when the grass is shorter, and water scarcity draws tigers to visible waterholes.

Journey to Nainital:

After lunch, we headed to our next destination, Nainital, a 3-hour drive away.

Arrival in Nainital:

• Nainital, nestled in the hills, greeted us with cool weather ranging from 5°C to 10°C.

• We stayed at Ayar Jungle Resort, known for its cottages set amidst dense plantations, offering an authentic jungle vibe and a tranquil stay.

In the evening, we strolled along the bustling Mall Road, enjoying the lively atmosphere, before returning to the resort for a restful night.

Day 7: Sightseeing in Nainital

Key Learnings Before Starting the Day:

• Mistake 3: Outstation cars are not permitted for sightseeing in Nainital. It’s better to use a drop taxi from Jim Corbett to Nainital and then hire a local vehicle. A local Innova costs ₹2,500 for sightseeing, making it more convenient.

We hired a local Innova and set off to explore Nainital.

Sightseeing Highlights:

1. Himalayan Viewpoint:

o A stunning spot to enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

2. Nainital Zoo:

o This impressive zoo is located at a high altitude and offers a remarkable experience, especially for kids.

o Tickets cost ₹100 per person, and a local pick-up service to and from the zoo costs ₹60 per person.

o A must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and families.

3. Mall Road:

o A bustling hub with plenty of food options, perfect for a quick snack or meal.

o We enjoyed lunch at Dominos before continuing our exploration.

4. Boating at Naini Lake:

o A serene and enjoyable activity priced at ₹200 per couple. The calm waters of the lake and the surrounding scenery make it an unforgettable experience.

5. Naina Devi Temple:

o A beautiful temple located near Naini Lake, offering a spiritual retreat in the heart of Nainital.

Mistake 4:

We realized that staying near Mall Road would have been more convenient. Attractions like the Zoo, Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, and the Ropeway to see the Himalayas are all within walking distance from Mall Road, saving time and effort.

The day ended with a peaceful walk along Mall Road before heading back to the resort.

Day 8: Fun Activities and a Trek to Tiffin Top

Morning Activities at the Resort:

After breakfast, the kids enjoyed some fun activities at Ayar Jungle Resort, including:

• Zip Lining

• Cycle Riding on a Rope

• Archery

Activities were chargeable but provided a great start to the day.

Trek to Tiffin Top:

Later, we embarked on a trek to Tiffin Top, a popular viewpoint in Nainital. The trek started conveniently from our resort, which was a major advantage.

• The Trek:

o The journey to the top requires considerable energy due to the steep slopes. However, the serene natural surroundings make the effort worthwhile.

o It’s a must-try for nature lovers and those who enjoy hiking, but it can be quite challenging with kids.

• Alternate Option:

o A horse ride is available for ₹800 per person (round trip), which is a good alternative for those who find trekking strenuous.

• At the Top:

o The stunning panoramic views are a well-deserved reward after the 1.5-hour climb.

o There’s a small local stall where you can buy refreshments like water, Maggi, and coffee while soaking in the beautiful scenery.

• The Return:

o Descending is much easier and quicker, making the trek less daunting overall.

Evening at the Resort:

We spent the rest of the day relaxing at the resort, enjoying its facilities, which include indoor games like Table Tennis and a Pool Table. It was the perfect way to unwind after an adventurous morning.

Day 9: Journey from Nainital to Delhi and Evening at India Gate

We started our drive from Nainital to Delhi at 7:00 AM, aiming to give everyone a chance to sleep through part of the 7-hour journey. Due to the speed limit of 80 km/h on the highways, it took a bit longer than expected.

Arrival in Delhi:

After reaching Delhi and taking a short break to freshen up, we set off for India Gate at 6:00 PM.

• India Gate Visit:

o Unlike many other monuments in Delhi, India Gate is open after sunset, making it a perfect spot for an evening visit.

o It’s an iconic landmark and a must-see while in Delhi.

o The area around India Gate is great for enjoying local snacks, and we indulged in the famous Delhi street food, especially the chaat, which was a treat!

Hotel Near Delhi Railway Station:

We had booked our hotel near Delhi Railway Station for convenience since our return journey was by train. This made traveling to the station easy and stress-free.

Day 10: Exploring Delhi and Return Journey

After breakfast, we checked out of the hotel and hired a local car for a full day of sightseeing:

• Qutub Minar: A historic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Red Fort: A must-see monument, but note that it closes by 6:00 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

Evening and Departure:

With our return train to Mumbai scheduled for 10:00 PM, we had time to explore these iconic sites before heading to the railway station.

Reflection on the Uttarakhand Trip:

Our time in Uttarakhand left us with lasting memories of the serene climate, spiritual peace, and thrilling adventure activities. The October-November months offer a chilly but refreshing experience.

I’m already looking forward to visiting again in April to experience the summers, see the blue Ganga River, and hopefully catch a glimpse of a tiger in Jim Corbett!

You can check out some of the pictures and videos from this incredible trip on my Instagram account: @ameetkela