KEDARNATH

2 N / 3 D

Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar/Rishikesh and Travel to Guptkashi

Morning

• Arrival in Haridwar/Rishikesh
  Begin your journey from Haridwar or Rishikesh. Visit key sites like Har Ki Pauri (Haridwar) or Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula (Rishikesh) if time permits.

• Breakfast & Start Drive to Guptkashi
  After breakfast, embark on a scenic 8-9 hour drive to Guptkashi, located en route to Kedarnath.

Afternoon

• Lunch
  Stop at a local restaurant for a vegetarian meal.

Evening

• Visit Vishwanath Temple (Guptkashi)
  Explore this sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s believed to be a part of the Kedarnath pilgrimage.

• Overnight Stay
  Check into your hotel in Guptkashi and rest for the night.

Day 2: Kedarnath Darshan

Early Morning

• Drive to Sonprayag/Gaurikund
  Start early with a short drive to Sonprayag (20 km) and then take a shared jeep to Gaurikund, the base for the trek to Kedarnath.

• Trek or Helicopter Ride to Kedarnath

  • Trek: A 16 km trek takes approximately 6-8 hours. Ponies and palanquins are available for those who need assistance.

  • Helicopter: Pre-book a helicopter ride for a more convenient option.

Afternoon

• Kedarnath Temple Darshan
  After reaching Kedarnath, visit the Kedarnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Evening

• Stay in Kedarnath or Return to Guptkashi
  Stay overnight at Kedarnath (basic accommodations) or trek back to Gaurikund and drive to Guptkashi for the night.

Day 3: Travel to Badrinath

Morning

• Breakfast & Drive to Badrinath
  After breakfast, embark on a picturesque drive to Badrinath (approx. 8-9 hours). Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas along the way.

Afternoon

• Lunch
  Stop for lunch at a local dhaba during the journey.

Evening

• Badrinath Temple Darshan
  Upon arrival, visit the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Take part in the evening aarti and soak in the spiritual ambiance.

• Tapt Kund
  Take a holy dip in the Tapt Kund, a natural hot water spring near the temple.

• Overnight Stay
  Stay overnight in Badrinath.

Day 4: Local Exploration & Return

Morning

• Visit Mana Village
  Explore Mana Village, the last village on the Indian border. Visit attractions like:

  • Vyas Gufa (where sage Vyasa composed the Mahabharata).

  • Bheem Pul (a natural bridge said to be built by Bheem).

• Charan Paduka
  Trek to this sacred site where Lord Vishnu's footprints are believed to be imprinted on a rock.

Afternoon

• Lunch & Departure
  Begin your return journey to Haridwar/Rishikesh. It’s a long drive (10-11 hours), so plan accordingly.

Evening

• Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh
  Arrive at your starting point and prepare for your onward journey.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

1. Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October for favorable weather.

2. Accommodation: Book in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage season.

3. Physical Fitness: Prepare for high-altitude trekking; carry essentials like trekking shoes, rain gear, and warm clothes.

4. Helicopter Services: Pre-book helicopter rides for Kedarnath through official portals.

5. Transport: Hire reliable drivers or tour packages for hilly terrain.

Let me know if you'd like adjustments or additional details for the itinerary!