Morning: After a hearty breakfast in Rishikesh, set off on the scenic 200 km drive passing the sacred confluence of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers at Devprayag. The winding roads offer spectacular river views and early mountain vistas.
Afternoon: Continue through Srinagar, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath, stopping for photo ops at the historic Rudraprayag bridge where the Alaknanda meets the Bhagirathi. The drive remains relaxed with several small cafés for a quick snack.
Evening: Arrive in the tranquil Sari Village and settle into a cozy homestay. Enjoy a traditional dinner (non‑veg available on request) and unwind under the starry Himalaya sky.
Find HotelsMorning: A short 30‑minute drive takes you to the base of Chopta, the “Mini Switzerland” of Uttarakhand. Begin the trek to the revered Tungnath Temple, a 3.5‑km ascent offering panoramic forest scenery.
Afternoon: For the adventurous, continue onward to the breathtaking Chandrashila summit (additional 1.5 km) for unrivaled views of the Himalayan peaks. Return to Chopta, grab a packed lunch, and start the long drive to Joshimath.
Evening: After a 6–7 hour journey, reach Joshimath and check into a comfortable hotel or homestay. Dine on local cuisine and enjoy the crisp mountain air before a good night’s rest.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a short drive and rope‑way ride up to Auli, the premier ski destination of North India. The ascent offers sweeping vistas of the snow‑capped Nanda Devi range.
Afternoon: Spend time skiing or simply playing in the deep snow, then explore the serene Auli Artificial Lake and the alpine meadow of Gurso Bugyal. A lunch at a local café provides warm soups and tea.
Evening: Descend back to Joshimath, where you can relax over dinner and reflect on the day’s high‑altitude experiences.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart early for an 8‑hour mountain drive through the picturesque towns of Pipalkoti, Karnaprayag and Rudraprayag, following the mighty Bhagirathi River. Frequent stops allow for photos of cascading waterfalls and rugged cliffs.
Afternoon: Continue the journey past Uttarkashi, soaking in the dramatic valley landscapes before arriving at the serene Harsil Valley. A short break at a roadside café provides a warm meal.
Evening: Settle into a riverside homestay, enjoy a home‑cooked dinner and perhaps a quiet walk along the Bhagirathi, listening to the gentle river flow.
Find HotelsMorning: Stroll along the banks of the Bhagirathi River**, passing through fragrant apple orchards. Visit the nearby Dharali village to experience authentic mountain life.
Afternoon: Explore the charming Mukhwa village and its small temples, then embark on a short trek to the panoramic Lama Top / Gartang Gali viewpoint (if accessible). The trek offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks.
Evening: Return to the homestay for a relaxed dinner, sharing stories with fellow travelers and enjoying the crisp night air.
Find HotelsMorning: After breakfast, begin the 260 km return journey, retracing the scenic route through Uttarkashi and Chamba.
Afternoon: Stop for a leisurely lunch en route, taking advantage of a viewpoint over the valley and a quick stretch.
Evening: Arrive back in Rishikesh by dusk. You may choose to stay overnight for a final night by the Ganga or depart directly, concluding the adventure.
Find HotelsMorning: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel and a brief walk along the Ganga ghats, soaking up the spiritual ambiance of Rishikesh.
Afternoon: Use any remaining time for souvenir shopping or a quick yoga session before heading to the airport or railway station.
Evening: Depart with wonderful memories of the Himalayas, ready to plan the next adventure.
Find HotelsIf you have extra days, consider adding a night in Uttarakashi to explore the Gangotri Glacier or extending the stay in Harsil for a deeper immersion in local culture and additional treks like Gurudwara Jolly Grant. To shorten the itinerary, you can skip the optional Chandrashila summit and combine Day 5’s village visits into a single half‑day, allowing an early departure from Harsil on Day 6.