7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Kedarnath in September 2023

1. Day 1: Visit Kedarnath Temple
   Located in the heart of Kedarnath
   Estimated Time and Distance: 5 minutes (0.2 miles) from Kedarnath Helipad

   In the morning, visit the famous Kedarnath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding area, where you can enjoy scenic views and natural beauty. In the evening, attend the evening aarti at the temple.

2. Day 2: Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
   Located 22 minutes (10.2 km) from Kedarnath Temple
   Estimated Time and Distance: 20 minutes (9.2 km) from Sonprayag Taxi Stand

   Spend the morning exploring the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Take a guided tour and learn about the sanctuary's conservation efforts. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic in the beautiful surroundings. In the evening, rest and relax.

3. Day 3: Vasuki Tal Lake
   Located 3 hours (9.3 km) from Kedarnath Temple
   Estimated Time and Distance: 1 hour 10 minutes (3.6 km) from Gaurikund

   Visit the picturesque Vasuki Tal Lake, located at an altitude of 14,200 feet. Trek through the lush green meadows, and enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped mountains on the way. In the afternoon, return to Kedarnath and explore the local markets. In the evening, attend the evening aarti at the temple.

4. Day 4: Bhairavnath Temple
   Located 1 hour 30 minutes (5.9 km) from Kedarnath Temple
   Estimated Time and Distance: 5 hours (15 km) from Gaurikund

   Visit the Bhairavnath Temple, located on the banks of the river Mandakini. The temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, who is believed to be the protector of the Kedarnath Temple. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive to Guptkashi, where you can visit the famous Manikarnik Kund. In the evening, return to Kedarnath and attend the evening aarti at the temple.

5. Day 5: Triyuginarayan Temple
   Located 1 hour 50 minutes (25 km) from Kedarnath Temple
   Estimated Time and Distance: 30 minutes (8.5 km) from Sonprayag Taxi Stand

   Visit the ancient Triyuginarayan Temple, which is famous for its connection to the Indian epic, Mahabharata. The temple is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Parvati got married. In the afternoon, explore the nearby villages and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings. In the evening, return to Kedarnath and attend the evening aarti at the temple.

6. Day 6: Gaurikund
   Located 1 hour 30 minutes (31.3 km) from Kedarnath Temple
   Estimated Time and Distance: 30 minutes (4.5 km) from Sonprayag Taxi Stand

   Visit the holy town of Gaurikund, which is considered to be the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath Temple. Take a dip in the hot springs and visit the ancient Gauri Devi Temple. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive to the nearby town of Rudraprayag, where you can visit the ancient temples and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings. In the evening, return to Kedarnath and attend the evening aarti at the temple.

7. Day 7: Tungnath Temple
   Located 2 hours 30 minutes (56 km) from Kedarnath Temple
   Estimated Time and Distance: 1 hour 30 minutes (28 km) from Chopta Bus Stop

   Visit the ancient Tungnath Temple, which is one of the holiest shrines in the Hindu religion. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at an altitude of 12,073 feet. In the afternoon, explore the nearby town of Chopta, which is known for its natural beauty and scenic views. In the evening, return to Kedarnath and attend the evening aarti at the temple.

Recommendations

You can also visit the nearby town of Badrinath, which is famous for its ancient temples and scenic beauty. You can also enjoy a trek to the beautiful Deoria Tal Lake. To maximize your fun, try to reach the temple early in the morning to beat the crowds. Also, make sure to carry warm clothes, as the temperature can drop suddenly. Finally, don't forget to try the delicious local cuisine.