Is the Har Ki Pauri aarti crowded?

Yes, especially on Tuesdays and weekends. Arrive 45 min before sunset to find a good spot.

Is the trip too rushed?

Manageable in 5 nights with smooth driving. For a slower pace, add 2 nights to extend to 7.

September-April. Avoid July-August monsoon when landslides close hill roads.

Yes - separate male/female changing areas. The current is strong; hold the chains for safety.

In Haridwar yes (no meat or alcohol). Mussoorie and Nainital allow both.

The most-sold Uttarakhand circuit covering Nainital lakes, Haridwar's holy ghats, and Mussoorie's hill-station heritage in 5 nights.