Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

12-Day Pilgrimage & Exploration Trip: Haridwar, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Rishikesh, Mathura, Barsana

Viewed by 104 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Haridwar & Local Sightseeing

Morning: Arrive in Haridwar and check into your hotel. Start your day by visiting the sacred Mansa Devi Temple, accessible by cable car offering panoramic views of the Ganges.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant local markets of Haridwar and enjoy a peaceful walk along the banks of the Ganges River.

Evening: Attend the renowned Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, a spectacular ritual with lamps and chants illuminating the riverbank.

Find Hotels

Day 2: Haridwar to Rishikesh - Spiritual Delights

Morning: Travel to Rishikesh (approx. 1 hour). Visit the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula suspension bridges, enjoying the scenic views of the Ganges.

Afternoon: Take part in a yoga session at the renowned Parmarth Niketan Ashram, experiencing spiritual harmony.

Evening: Explore the cafes and shops along the riverside and consider attending a peaceful evening meditation session.

Find Hotels

Day 3: Journey to Gangotri

Morning: Begin early and journey towards Gangotri, the origin of the sacred Ganges River, through scenic Himalayan mountain routes.

Afternoon: Visit the Gangotri Temple and explore the serene surroundings of the Gangotri Glacier region.

Evening: Rest in local guesthouses and soak in the tranquil mountain atmosphere with a quiet riverside walk.

Find Hotels

Day 4: Gangotri to Yamunotri

Morning: Travel to Yamunotri, another sacred Himalayan site, famous for the origin of the Yamuna River.

Afternoon: Visit the Yamunotri Temple and enjoy hot springs nearby known for their therapeutic properties.

Evening: Spend a peaceful evening absorbing the majestic mountain views and prepare for the journey to Kedarnath.

Find Hotels

Day 5: Travel to Kedarnath

Morning: Depart early to reach the base camp of Kedarnath. Begin the trek (or helicopter ride depending on preference) to the shrine.

Afternoon: Visit the ancient and revered Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva, amidst Himalayan splendor.

Evening: Experience the quiet spirituality of the mountains with an optional evening prayer at the temple.

Find Hotels

Day 6: Kedarnath to Badrinath

Morning: Trek or descend from Kedarnath and start the journey to Badrinath, passing through picturesque valleys.

Afternoon: Arrive in Badrinath; visit the famous Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Evening: Relax in the charming town and participate in the local temple rituals and night prayers.

Find Hotels

Day 7: Exploring Badrinath & Surroundings

Morning: Visit the peaceful Mana Village, the last Indian village on the Himalayas border, and the **Vasudhara Falls** nearby.

Afternoon: Explore the serene surroundings, including the Tapt Kund hot springs known for their healing properties.

Evening: Attend an evening aarti at the Badrinath Temple for a memorable spiritual experience.

Find Hotels

Day 8: Return to Rishikesh

Morning: Begin your return trip to Rishikesh with scenic stops along the way to enjoy nature’s beauty.

Afternoon: Arrive in Rishikesh and unwind by the river; visit the Neer Garh Waterfall for a refreshing stroll.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at a cafe with river views or a quiet meditation session.

Find Hotels

Day 9: Rishikesh to Mathura

Morning: Travel to Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, soak in the cultural and historic atmosphere.

Afternoon: Explore the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple and nearby ancient sites.

Evening: Witness the colorful evening aarti at the Vishram Ghat along the Yamuna River.

Find Hotels

Day 10: Mathura to Barsana

Morning: Journey to Barsana, the birthplace of Radha, Lord Krishna’s beloved.

Afternoon: Visit the majestic Barsana Temple dedicated to Radha and witness traditional devotional practices.

Evening: Stroll through the quaint town and experience local cultural festivities if available.

Find Hotels

Day 11: Return to Mathura & Leisure

Morning: Return to Mathura and spend the morning at leisure exploring less visited temples and markets.

Afternoon: Consider visiting the Dwarkadhish Temple and enjoy local cuisine at traditional eateries.

Evening: Relax by the river or attend a concluding evening aarti to soak in the spiritual vibe one last time.

Find Hotels

Day 12: Departure

Morning: Final shopping and souvenir hunting in Mathura before you prepare for departure.

Afternoon: Check out from your hotel and proceed to your onward destination or transport hub.

Evening: Reflect on your spiritual journey and safe travels home.

Find Hotels

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Mansa Devi Temple (Haridwar) - 2 hours, ₹150
  • Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri - 1.5 hours, free
  • Laxman Jhula & Ram Jhula (Rishikesh) - 3 hours, free
  • Gangotri Temple Visit - 3 hours, free
  • Yamunotri Temple and Hot Springs - 3 hours, ₹100
  • Kedarnath Trek/Helicopter - 6-8 hours, trekking free; helicopter approx. ₹4500
  • Kedarnath Temple - 2 hours, free
  • Badrinath Temple - 2 hours, free
  • Mana Village and Vasudhara Falls - 4 hours, minimal transport cost ₹300
  • Tapt Kund Hot Springs - 1 hour, free
  • Neer Garh Waterfall (Rishikesh) - 2 hours, free
  • Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple (Mathura) - 2 hours, free
  • Vishram Ghat Aarti (Mathura) - 1.5 hours, free
  • Barsana Temple - 2 hours, free

Total Estimated Cost: ₹5050 (excluding accommodation, meals, and transport between cities)

Tips

If you wish to extend your pilgrimage, consider spending extra days in Rishikesh for yoga retreats or exploring nearby trekking routes for deeper Himalayan experiences. To shorten the trip, you might skip either Gangotri or Yamunotri and combine visits to Mathura and Barsana in a single day, focusing more on the spiritual highlights and less on long travel periods.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version