Kedar–Badri Bliss

Day 1 – 23 May | From Capital Chaos to Himalayan Calm: Delhi to Rishikesh

Arrive in Delhi and begin your scenic drive towards Rishikesh, the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. Watch the plains slowly dissolve into forested hills and winding rivers as you follow the course of the holy Ganga.

By evening, soak in the spiritual magic of Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat or Parmarth Niketan, where flickering lamps, rhythmic chants, and the sound of bells create a deeply moving experience.

Overnight Stay: Rishikesh

Good to Know:

• Wear modest clothing for the aarti.

• Photography is allowed, but the moment is best felt without screens.

• Rishikesh is a vegetarian, alcohol-free city.

Day 2 – 24 May | Along the Sacred River: Rishikesh to Guptkashi

After breakfast, drive deeper into Uttarakhand, following the emerald waters of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers.

En-route scenic & spiritual stops include:

• Devprayag – the sacred confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi forming the Ganga

• Rudraprayag – meeting point of Alaknanda and Mandakini

• Agastyamuni – associated with Sage Agastya - Optional

• Tilwara – picturesque riverside town - Optional

Arrive at Guptkashi, a serene temple town with views of Chaukhamba peaks, and visit Vishwanath & Ardhnarishwar Temples if time permits.

Overnight Stay: Guptkashi

Good to Know:

• Roads are mountainous with hairpin bends—motion sickness meds can help

• Mobile connectivity may be patchy after Rudraprayag

Day 3 – 25 May | The Call of the Divine: Journey to Kedarnath

Early morning departure towards Sonprayag / Gaurikund, the base for the sacred 20 km trek to Kedarnath. Choose your mode:

• Trek on foot

• Pony / Dandi (palanquin)

• Helicopter ride (subject to weather & availability, at additional cost)

As you ascend, the landscape transforms into raw Himalayan grandeur—snow-clad peaks, roaring streams, and pure mountain air. Reach Kedarnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

In the evening, attend the Kedarnath Aarti, a profoundly spiritual moment amid towering mountains.

Overnight Stay: Kedarnath

Good to Know:

• Carry warm layers even in May—it gets very cold

• Oxygen levels are lower; walk slowly and stay hydrated

• Phones and power banks are essential due to limited electricity

Day 4 – 26 May | Descending with Devotion: Kedarnath to Guptkashi

Wake up to an ethereal Himalayan sunrise before beginning your descent back to Gaurikund. Though downhill, the trek requires caution—take your time and enjoy the views one last time.

Drive back to Guptkashi, where a comfortable rest awaits after a physically rewarding pilgrimage.

Overnight Stay: Guptkashi

Good to Know:

• Trekking poles reduce knee strain during descent

• Start early to avoid afternoon weather changes

Day 5 – 27 May | Into the Meadows of Myth: Guptkashi to Chopta

Today’s drive takes you into lush alpine territory as you head to Chopta, fondly called the “Mini Switzerland of India.” Pine forests, rolling meadows, and panoramic mountain views define this tranquil region.

Spend the evening at leisure, soaking in the silence and stargazing under crystal-clear skies.

Overnight Stay: Chopta

Good to Know:

• Nights are cold; pack thermals

• Limited shops—carry essentials beforehand

Day 6 – 28 May | Above the Clouds: Tungnath & Chandrashila to Joshimath

Begin early for the Tungnath Trek, leading to the world’s highest Shiva temple. Continue onward to Chandrashila Peak, where a 360-degree Himalayan panorama unfolds—Nanda Devi, Trishul, Chaukhamba, and more.

After the trek, drive to Joshimath, a key pilgrimage hub and winter seat of Lord Badrinath.

Overnight Stay: Joshimath

Good to Know:

• Start the trek before sunrise for clear views

• Moderate fitness required, but incredibly rewarding

Day 7 – 29 May | In the Footsteps of Vishnu: Badrinath & Mana Village

Drive to Badrinath Dham, one of the revered Char Dham sites. Visit the temple, Tapt Kund (hot springs), and absorb the powerful spiritual atmosphere.

Later, explore Mana Village, the last Indian village before the Tibet border. Visit: Optional

• Vyas Gufa

• Ganesh Gufa

• Bhimpul

Return to Joshimath by evening.

Overnight Stay: Joshimath

Good to Know:

• Hot springs are perfect for relaxing tired muscles

• Mana village has unique woolen handicrafts

Day 8 – 30 May | A Long Road, A Sacred Farewell: Joshimath to Rishikesh

Drive back through dramatic valleys, river confluences, and mountain towns. If time permits, re-attend the Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh, experiencing it with a deeper sense of gratitude after the journey.

Overnight Stay: Rishikesh

Good to Know:

• It’s a long drive—carry snacks and water

• Sunset views along the river are breathtaking

Day 9 – 31 May | Thrills & Goodbyes: Rishikesh to Delhi

Begin your final day with optional white-water rafting on the Ganga, an exhilarating contrast to the spiritual calm of the past days.

Later, drive back to Delhi Airport for departure, carrying memories of mountains, mantras, and timeless devotion.

Good to Know:

• Rafting is safe and conducted by certified guides

• Keep at least 5–6 hours buffer for airport transfer

Hotel Details: Super Deluxe

• Rishikesh: Moksham or similar
• Guptkashi: Raja Resort or similar
• Kedarnath: Bhel Ashram or similar
• Chopta: Camps or similar
• Joshimath: Auli D or similar