Every family from Gandhidham and Kutch has Haridwar on their list. The holy city where the Ganga first touches the plains, the golden glow of thousands of diyas at the evening aarti, the chants echoing across the ghats — it is one of those experiences that changes how you see the world. And the best part: it is completely practical for families of all ages.
Why Haridwar is Perfect for Gujarat Families
Haridwar is one of the Sapta Puri — the seven holiest cities in Hinduism. For Gujarati families who value pilgrimage, this is not just a holiday, it is a spiritual milestone. The famous Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, held every evening at sunset, is unlike anything you will see anywhere else in India. Thousands of oil lamps float down the river as priests chant — even the most practical person in your group will feel something shift.
Beyond the spiritual experience, Haridwar is the base for Rishikesh (just 23 km away), the Char Dham Yatra, and some of the most beautiful Himalayan foothills scenery accessible by road. It is flat, easy to walk, and genuinely family-friendly — suitable for grandparents and small children equally.
Best Time to Visit from Gandhidham / Kutch
From Gandhidham, Haridwar is comfortably accessible by train throughout the year. However, the experience varies significantly by season.
- October to March: Our most recommended window. Cool temperatures (5–18°C), crystal clear skies, and the Ganga Aarti at its most atmospheric. This is peak pilgrimage season.
- April to June: Warmer (20–35°C) but popular for families combining with Char Dham. All temples open, good road access.
- July to September: Monsoon. The Ganga runs high and fast. The aarti continues but travel can be unpredictable. We advise most families to avoid this window.
If you can travel only once, choose October to November. The post-monsoon Himalayas are clear as glass, the crowds are manageable, and the cool evenings make the Ganga Aarti feel magical.
Top Things to Do in Haridwar
- Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri: The non-negotiable highlight. Arrive 30 minutes early for a good spot. The evening aarti starts around 6pm (winter) or 7pm (summer).
- Mansa Devi Temple: Take the ropeway up Bilwa Parvat hill. Devotees tie threads and pray for wishes. Spectacular views of the city from the top.
- Chandi Devi Temple: On Neel Parvat hill, also by ropeway. Part of the Panch Tirtha circuit within Haridwar.
- Sapt Rishi Ashram: Five kilometres from the city, where the Ganga splits into seven streams. A peaceful, less-crowded alternative to the main ghats.
- Rishikesh Day Trip: Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, and the iconic Beatles Ashram — all within an hour. Perfect for a full day excursion.
- Daksha Mahadev Temple: One of the oldest temples in Haridwar, linked to the legend of Sati and Shiva.
A Typical 4-Night Itinerary from Gandhidham
Day 1: Depart Gandhidham by Kutch Express in the evening. Travel overnight in AC berths — dinner provided by our chefs on board.
Day 2: Arrive Haridwar morning. Check in, freshen up. Afternoon: Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi ropeway visits. Evening: Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri — the trip highlight. Dinner by our Kutchi chefs.
Day 3: Full day Rishikesh excursion. Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Beatles Ashram, and local temple visits. Return to Haridwar by evening.
Day 4: Daksha Mahadev Temple, Sapt Rishi Ashram, local market for Gangajal, puja items, and Haridwar sweets (petha, revadi). Second Ganga Aarti for those who want it.
Day 5: Morning departure from Haridwar. Board return train to Gandhidham. Arrive the following morning.
Budget Guide: How Much Does It Cost?
Our 4N/5D Haridwar–Rishikesh package from Gandhidham is priced at approximately ₹12,000–₹16,000 per person depending on train class and group size. This includes return train tickets (3AC or 2AC), all accommodation in good quality hotels, all meals cooked by our own Kutchi chefs, ropeway tickets for Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi, a full Rishikesh day trip, and a dedicated guide throughout the journey.
There are no hidden costs. The price you see when you book is the price you pay. Personal shopping, Gangajal purchases, and optional helicopter darshan are the only extras.
Why Book with Rajal Tourism from Gandhidham
We are not a portal — we are Vikas and Raj, a father-and-son team from Gandhidham with 15 years of experience running tours for Kutchi families. When you travel with us to Haridwar, our own trained Kutchi chefs travel with the group. Dal, bhaat, shaak, rotli — fresh, home-style, hygienic — from Gandhidham to the banks of the Ganga and back. No dependency on outside restaurants.
Our groups depart together from Gandhidham station. You travel with familiar faces, and Vikas bhai is personally reachable on WhatsApp throughout the trip. We have taken hundreds of families on the Haridwar pilgrimage. We know every nuance of this journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Haridwar safe for senior family members?A: Absolutely. Haridwar is flat, clean, and very well organised for pilgrims. Wheelchairs are available at Har Ki Pauri. For Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi, the ropeway is the easy alternative to trekking. We always move at the pace of the slowest member of the group.
Q: What train do we take from Gandhidham to Haridwar?A: The Kutch Express (No. 22955) departs Gandhidham and reaches Haridwar in approximately 22–24 hours. Our group travels together in reserved AC coaches — we book all tickets as part of the package.
Q: Can Jain families travel on this tour?A: Yes. Our chefs prepare Jain-friendly meals on request. Please let us know at the time of booking and we will make all arrangements.
Q: When is the Ganga Aarti held?A: Every evening, year-round. Approximately 6pm in winter (October–March) and 7pm in summer (April–September). The aarti lasts about 45 minutes. We always arrive early to get a good viewing position at Har Ki Pauri.
Haridwar is one of those destinations that every family should experience at least once. If the Ganga Aarti has been on your wishlist, let us make it happen. Call or WhatsApp Vikas bhai on +91 98797 43111 to check upcoming departure dates. Har Har Gange!
