Haridwar & Rishikesh from Krakow
in November 2026

The Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri (Haridwar's most sacred ghat) takes place every evening at sunset — typically 6–7 PM in winter. Seven priests simultaneously perform the aarti with large multi-tiered oil lamps (diyas), incense, conch shells, and bells. Thousands of devotees and tourists line the ghat steps. The aarti ends with floating diyas released on the Ganges. Arrive 45 minutes early to secure a ghat-side position. November's post-sunset cool air and the river mist combine to make this one of India's most moving spiritual experiences.

The Beatles Ashram (officially Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram, also called Chaurasi Kutia) is where John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr lived and composed music in February–April 1968 under Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. The ashram is now open to visitors (₹150 entry) under Rajaji National Park authority. The grounds include the original meditation kutia (cells), the geodesic meditation domes, and the yoga hall where the Beatles practiced. Street art murals of the Beatles cover many of the buildings — created by a Rajasthan-based artist. It is Rishikesh's most photographed attraction after the Laxman Jhula bridge.

Haridwar and Rishikesh are 24 km apart — a 45-minute drive. The standard Junegiri Yatra 3-night circuit: Day 1: Arrive Haridwar, Har Ki Pauri Ganga Aarti. Day 2: Mansa Devi temple (ropeway), Chandi Devi temple, Rajaji National Park morning safari, evening Haridwar market. Day 3: Transfer to Rishikesh, Laxman Jhula walk, Beatles Ashram, Triveni Ghat aarti, riverside ashram visit. Day 4: White water rafting (optional), depart. The circuit gives the complete Uttarakhand gateway experience — pilgrimage at Haridwar, spiritual adventure at Rishikesh.