Advice on my itinerary for India visit on Independance Day

Hi

I have planned a trip to delhi and areas around from 13th-28th August 2009
I understand that 15th of August is a national holiday celebrating independence of India from British rule. During this the prime minister gives a speech from the ramparts of the red fort, did my bit of research
Is this an event that is worth visiting…is it good and is it safe?

I am also interested in visiting some ghats by the Ganges. i was looking at Haridwar or Rishikesh, which one is better, Is this a good choice?

I am also interested in the Golden Temple at Amritsar. I know that it is possible to sleep in the temple (in return for a donation of course and that it is also possible to help out washing up or cooking…these are things i would love to do). Has anyone ever been to the Golden Temple been unable to stay there (are there any rooms available to stay there, is there an option of online booking)?

And of course the Taj Mahal in Agra.

I know that August is the monsoon season and everyone seems to have a different opinion about whether this is a good idea. some say it rains non-stop for around 2hrs a day that provides a welcome break from the sunny heat. Others say it will ruin any trip, it will rain non-stop every day, transportation to places will be difficult and we will be unable to set foot outside.
I am optimistic but it would help if i could get a description of possible weather at this time.

Lastly does anyone have any further things that i should consider visiting or doing? (e.g. i looked at river rafting but i understand this is not possible in August. I wasn’t sure if Dharamsala was worth the long journey…)

Thanks in tons

Mark

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